By Fred Odu
As the saying goes, there is no hiding place for a gold fish.
For a man who has dedicated his life to service to humanity, fighting for equity and justice for all in the Nigerian Senate where he stands tall in his representation of the Delta North senatorial district, nothing short of accolades, encomiums and recognitions are expected.
More importantly, such recognitions, which have come from reputable organisations, even from outside of Delta State, all acknowledged that Senator Nwoko has, within a space of 18 months in the saddle, done what the average Senator would not do in four years.
In the past one month, the Star Prince has had to his credit, 4 awards, which are worthy of note.
On December 1, 2024, he was conferred with the highly coveted Social Impact of the Decade award at the Megastar Man of the Decade Awards (Africa).
Celebrated Senator Nwoko’s visionary leadership, transformative initiatives, and unwavering dedication to improving lives and fostering sustainable development over the past decade, earned him the award at the inaugural ceremony by Megastar, held in Asokoro, Abuja.
Receiving the award, Senator Nwoko, represented by his Communications Director, Hon. Gloria Okolugbo, reiterated his tireless commitment to public service and his deep compassion for humanity, pointing out that he had been able to make immeasurable impact across critical sectors such as health, education, and infrastructure.
“My support for the people of Delta North and Nigerians at large has been nothing short of transformation, an impact that transcends mere statistics and resonates deeply within communities”, the Senator remarked.
The Megastar Man of the Decade Awards, put together by Ifetayo Adeniyi Moses, Publisher, Megastar Life & Style Magazine, was more than a celebration, it was a testament to the enduring power of vision, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to a better society.
Nine days later, the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), named Senator Prince Ned Nwoko the recipient of its prestigious 2024 Human Rights Man of the Year Award.
The award, which was in commemoration of the 2024 International Human Rights Day in Abuja, recognized his exemplary contributions to legislative excellence, community development, and the advancement of human rights in Nigeria.
HURIWA, while describing Ned Nwoko as a “beacon of hope for Delta North”, stated that he was selected for the award in recognition of his outstanding performance in the 10th Senate, and for his transformative initiatives that have positively impacted Delta North and beyond, noting that his sponsorship of 25 bills and 19 motions are of great significance, not only to his constituents, but to the generality of Nigerians, and especially his passion for the creation of Anioma State.
Following closely, the Special Monitoring Mission of the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) in Nigeria honoured Distinguished Senator Prince (Dr.) Ned Nwoko with a Global Leadership Award, reserved for individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership on a global scale.
Making the presentation at the National Assembly, the National Coordinator of the Transnational Intergovernmental Organization in Nigeria, Engr. Comrade Elijah Vitus Echendu, conveyed the commendation of IHRC’s Ambassador-at-Large and Head of Diplomatic Mission in Nigeria, Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah, underscoring Senator Nwoko’s antecedents in the 10th National Assembly.
He stated that Senator Ned Nwoko had sponsored several bills at the Nigerian Senate, focusing on key areas impacting the nation’s growth and development, some of which covered economic development, social welfare, and healthcare reforms.
In the same context, Fidelis Onakpoma, IHRC’s Head of Media and Strategic Communications, in his remarks, said Senator Nwoko’s distinguished reputation, charismatic leadership, and youth-oriented approach had earned him significant acclaim and support from Nigerian youths, both within the country and in the diaspora.
On December 21, the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa came alive as distinguished personalities from across Nigeria gathered for the CEOs Network Africa Award Night, a grand event dedicated to celebrating excellence in leadership, innovation, and transformative contributions to societal and economic development.
Among the honorees was Senator Prince Ned Munir Nwoko, representing Delta North in the National Assembly, who received a special recognition award for Mentorship Excellence.
This accolade underscored his outstanding achievements and impact in the line of legislative service.
In his acceptance speech, the Senator expressed gratitude for the recognition and emphasized the importance of mentorship and leadership in building a prosperous Nigeria, shedding light on two key legislative initiatives that exemplify his commitment to national progress:
1. The Enterprise Promotion Bill – A proposed legislation designed to inject ₦50 million into Nigerian enterprises, with a specific focus on empowering young entrepreneurs and fostering innovation.
2. The CBN Act Amendment Bill – A bold reform aimed at banning payments of exports, including crude oil proceeds and salaries, in foreign currencies to strengthen the naira and promote economic stability.
This award was particularly significant to Senator Ned Nwoko, as it coincided with his 64th birth anniversary and could best be taken to be a highly cherished birthday gift.
Fred Odu
Editor
Gallant Reporters
